Awesome Laid Back Networking

Last night JCG Consulting and the McLellan Marketing Group organized the laid back networking event.  It is was awesome because it was better than mere networking.

It was about connecting.

At many networking events, it is more of a job function.  A company has paid a membership fee to an organization.  Someone is sponsoring the event.  Refreshments have been provided.  There may be door prizes, a speaker, or just a welcome speech by the host.  All of this tends to heighten the stakes a bit and the pressure to "network" and promote your business is on.

Laid Back Networking is voluntary.  There is no membership or any other kind of cost.  No speaker.  No door prizes.  It is BYOB so no refreshments are provided.  (We did make sure there was ice and we had to scrounge for a bottle opener.)  Heck, it is only called "Laid Back Networking" because something has to go in the subject line of the email that gets sent around telling people where and when to show up.

The lack of structure seems to create an atmosphere of greater exchange. 

In fact, I saw more people get introduced to each other than I have ever seen at a more formal event.

We would love to hear what you think.  Tell us about a connection you made.  Who did you meet or what did you learn about someone you already knew?  Please comment!

Blog Extra: Connecting, Networking, and Hugging podcast.

Comments

[Gabriel Glynn]

Social people thrive in this type of environment. It separates people that are networkers from those that just like to be seen.

[Ben Stone]

I definitely enjoyed the gathering and thought the number of connections was higher than other events. I think one of the reasons for the high level of connecting was the fact that this event is populated more organically than other events. I asked a few folks I know to come and they did - others did likewise. This resulted in more common ground among participants than the standard Chamber or BNI event.

This is similar to the way social media operates. There is a personal reason for attending than the standard biz event. Looking forward to the next one.

[Justin Brady]

I was completely overwhelmed seeing such Iowa celebrities such as Jeff Garrison, Mike Sansone, Drew McLellan among others...
I had to leave early because I almost passed out with so much knowledge in one place at the same time.
Joking aside, I thought it was a lot of fun. A good reminder of who's out there "killing it".

Thanks Drew and Jeff for hosting this one... see you next time.

[Andy Brudtkuhl]

Had a great time and can't wait for more! Thanks for putting this together!

[Jason Kiesau]

I thought this event was great. Just by calling it "Laid Back" made my drive there enjoyable. You never know what you are going to get, but this was really an enjoyable experience and I connected with some great people.

I really look forward to the next one!

[Derek Bough]

I think Todd Razor was the only new person I met but, had great conversations with you, Mike, Mark, Drew, Ben, Jill, Adam, and a few others.

It was a lot of fun. Can't wait for the next one.